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How to Reduce Glare at Your Workstation

Simple lighting adjustments can help you minimize glare and reduce eyestrain and headaches. Glare can come from a light source, such as a lighting fixture or the sun, or from bright surface, such as a mirror, light-colored work surfaces, or even white clothing,

To control glare try one or more of the following:

  • Lower the total (ambient) light levels whenever possible. This means turning off some overhead lights or removing a light bulb.
  • Avoid placing your monitor directly under cabinet task lights.
  • Position your monitor at a right angle to the window. Avoid lighting coming over your shoulder directly above or behind you. Have ceiling lights off to the side, if possible.
  • Close your shades, curtains, or blinds as outside light levels change during the day.
  • Position task lights directly on your documents.
  • Clean your screen to maximize clarity.
  • Use a hood if necessary to shelter the screen from undesirable lighting. For low budget idea, try taping a piece of cardboard on the top of the monitor.
  • In some situations, only a glare screen will work. Polarized glass is best and most costly, polarized film is next best.

Revised: 9/10/2008 CW